ICD-10 Code H74.312 – Ankylosis of ear ossicles, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.312 – Ankylosis of ear ossicles, left ear
What it is
This code describes abnormal fixation of the tiny middle-ear bones in the left ear. The ossicles cannot move normally, which can reduce sound transmission.
Clinical signs
Patients commonly have conductive hearing loss on the left side, often with reduced hearing clarity. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H74.312 when the record specifically documents ankylosis or fixation of the left ear ossicles. It may appear after otologic examination, imaging, or operative findings. Code the left-sided diagnosis only when laterality is clearly stated.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hearing loss alone without documented ossicular ankylosis. Do not assign it if the fixation is in the right ear, both ears, or if documentation is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality and the exact middle-ear diagnosis in the note before coding.